[onthemarc]

Do HP notebook's have a compatibility problem with CNC controllers or mach-3
Is this computer a good choice for my CNC project. I read somewhere that this computer
has issues getting along with controllers? or mach-3
True or False

[port_huon]

Any brand laptop is considered a bad idea as a controller for Mach 3.
Timing issues with power control and the voltage on parallel ports are two problems that have been reported.

[laurensschu]

Why would all hp notebooks(best there are) have compatibility issues with mach-3?
I think more problems will arise because of new windows operating systems, the serial port is no longer standard fully supported form vista.(one of the reasons you don't see them that often any more)
It can work on a windows 7 with usb to serial, but it probably wouldn't be the easiest way to go.

And as said just before me, a "normal" pc compared to a notebook will always be the safer way to go.

[keebler303]

Why would all hp notebooks(best there are) have compatibility issues with mach-3?
I think more problems will arise because of new windows operating systems, the serial port is no longer standard fully supported form vista.(one of the reasons you don't see them that often any more)
It can work on a windows 7 with usb to serial, but it probably wouldn't be the easiest way to go.

And as said just before me, a "normal" pc compared to a notebook will always be the safer way to go.

Thanks for the valuable info. Mach3 does not use a serial port.


As mentioned above, most laptops have power saving features and voltage levels that do not permit their use with mach3. There are some laptops which will work, and there are products like the Smoothstepper which will allow you to use mach with any laptop.

[laurensschu]

Thanks for the valuable info. Mach3 does not use a serial port.

I believe he asked for "problem with CNC controllers or mach-3"
Some cnc controllers do use serial ports.

[keebler303]

I believe he asked for "problem with CNC controllers or mach-3"
Some cnc controllers do use serial ports.

I think he meant "driver" by controller. The problems with laptops that affect mach3 would not affect a serial port based controller since serial communication is already asynchronous and the motion is calculated on the controller.

With mach, the actual motor control pulses are generated on the computer so the timing must be perfect.

Sorry for the sarcasm. :banana: